"Heaven has surely gained the most stunning angel of all."
Tributes have begun to pour in for a young teacher tragically killed after she was struck by a vehicle near St Crona's National School in Dungloe, Co. Donegal at approximately 6.30pm last night.
Dawn Croke, who was aged in her 30s, was a popular teacher at the local Rosses Community School and was a former Mary from Dungloe contestant.
Ms Croke's six-year-old daughter was also injured in the collision, and remains in a serious condition at Letterkenny University Hospital.
A notice sent to all pupils at the school read: "Rosses Community School will be closed tomorrow due to a bereavement in the school community.
"Our condolences to the family. The school will be open from 9.30am for support for all member of the school community."
The school remains closed today as a mark of respect.
A full investigation into the tragedy has been launched and members of the Garda forensics team are expected to arrive at the scene this morning.
"Can't believe this tragic news"
Ms Croke was part of a very well known family, and heavily intertwined in the local community and the local music scene.
Members of the local Mary from Dungloe organisation last night paid tribute to Ms Croke who was the 2008 Dungloe Mary.
A spokesperson for the Mary from Dungloe committee said: "We are asking committee members and Mary’s past and present to join us for a guard of honour at Dawn’s funeral."
Shocked friends paid tribute to Ms Croke on the Mary From Dungloe Facebook page.
One woman wrote: "Heaven has surely gained the most stunning angel of all."
Another said: "Can't believe this tragic news - shocking sad - rest in peace Dawn, sleep tight."
A spokesman for the Gardai press office confirmed: "Gardaí are investigating a fatal traffic collision at Chapel Road, Dungloe, Co. Donegal at 6.30pm on 10th January 2018.
"A woman in her 30s was fatally injured when she was struck by a car. A 6-year-old girl was also injured and has been taken to University Hospital Letterkenny. The driver of the car was not injured."
